The centenary of two influential figures in the conservative movement, William F. Buckley Jr. and Margaret Thatcher, has prompted reflections on their significant impacts on political discourse and government policy. March 2023 marks 100 years since their births, a milestone that has not garnered the recognition it deserves from many historians and media outlets typically aligned with liberal perspectives.
William F. Buckley Jr.: The Conservative Vanguard
William F. Buckley Jr. was a pivotal figure who championed conservative thought during a time when it faced considerable opposition. He established the influential magazine National Review in 1955, creating a platform for conservative voices at a time when liberal ideologies dominated the public sphere. Buckley became known for his sharp wit and expansive vocabulary, utilizing these tools to effectively counter liberal arguments.
One of Buckley’s famous quips underscored his skepticism of elite institutions: he preferred to “entrust the government of the United States to the first 400 people listed in the Boston telephone directory than to the faculty of Harvard University.” This statement not only mocked the perceived elitism of academia but also resonated with a growing discontent towards the so-called “woke” agenda. His ability to engage in intellectual debates while maintaining a sense of humor made him a formidable opponent.
During a televised interview, when questioned about his seated posture, Buckley responded, “It’s very, very hard to stand up carrying the weight of what I know.” His retort captured both his confidence and the depth of knowledge he possessed, traits that endeared him to many followers.
Margaret Thatcher: A Transformative Leader
Margaret Thatcher, the United Kingdom’s first female Prime Minister, fundamentally altered the political landscape of Britain. Serving from 1979 to 1990, she faced fierce resistance from the political Left, particularly due to her aggressive dismantling of socialist policies that had long been entrenched in British society. Thatcher’s reforms addressed economic stagnation and high inflation, achieving notable results. According to an article by Christopher Sandford in Modern Age: A Conservative Review, she successfully lowered inflation from an annual rate of 18 percent to 5.5 percent, demonstrating her effectiveness as a leader.
Thatcher famously stated, “There is no such thing as society. There are individual men and women, and there are families.” This assertion encapsulated her belief in personal responsibility over government intervention. Her critique of socialism was equally blunt: “The problem with Socialism is that you eventually run out of other people’s money,” a sentiment that still resonates in contemporary political discussions.
Sandford describes Thatcher as a “steely-eyed operator” who prioritized her vision for Britain over consensus politics, a characteristic that has garnered both admiration and criticism. Many view her as one of the last great British prime ministers, someone who navigated the complexities of leadership while challenging a stagnant political establishment.
As the world reflects on the centenary of Buckley and Thatcher, their legacies serve as reminders of the enduring influence of conservative thought. Their ideas and philosophies continue to hold relevance, suggesting that a return to their principles could benefit modern politicians grappling with contemporary issues.
In a polarized political climate, revisiting the contributions of figures like Buckley and Thatcher offers an opportunity for dialogue and understanding across ideological divides. Their centenary deserves recognition not just for their achievements, but for the lasting impact they have had on political discourse.
